When there's an emergency, like a bad winter storm, a hurricane, or fire, you need to be ready to get by on your own for at least the first 72 hours. You never know when an emergency will happen.

1. Know the risks

You will be better prepared when an emergency happens if you know the risks. Risks can be:

winter storms

flooding

wildfires

hurricanes

house fires

chemical spills

road collisions

These risks can leave you stuck at home without heat, light, running water, or a way to cook food.

Think about how long can you get by on your own without electricity or running water? Will you need extra medicine?

You may have to leave your home in a hurry. If authorities tell you to evacuate your home or you hear of an evacuation order affecting your area, it means that you must leave immediately because staying there has become dangerous.

2. Make a plan

A good plan tells you where to find the things you need and what to do during an emergency.

Create a personal support network. This is a group of at least 3 people you trust to help you in times of an emergency.

Ask people if they are willing to help you in an emergency.

Give them important contact numbers like your cell, home, work or school.

Tell these people where you keep your emergency kit and give someone you trust a key to your home.

Include someone who lives outside of your region as they probably won't be affected by the same emergency.

Things to include in your plan:

where to find your fire extinguisher, main water valve, electrical box, gas shut-off, and floor drain

contact information for friends and family

plans for looking after your pets

information about your special health needs

contact information and instructions for your personal support network

Keep a copy of your plan in your emergency kit, at home, in your car, and at work.

3. Prepare an emergency kit

Your emergency kit should have everything you need to keep your family healthy for at least 72 hours. The kit should be easy to carry. Check your kit twice a year and replace anything that is out of date.

Include these things in your emergency kit:

your plan

a list of your personal support network including their name, relation, address, phone and cell numbers

at least 6 litres of water per person (2 litres per day)

food that won't spoil, like canned and dry foods

manual can opener

first-aid supplies

allergy medications and special needs or equipment you use

a list of your prescription medicines with their prescription number and purpose

pharmacy information

pet care

at least a 3-day supply of your prescription medicines

wind-up or battery-powered flashlight

wind-up or battery-powered radio

batteries for your flashlight and radio

extra keys for your house and car

money in small bills

copies of important papers like your driver's license, birth certificate, and insurance policies

Who to call

911 - emergencies
Call this number if your health, safety, or property is threatened and you need help right away.

811 - health information
Call this number for health advice and peace of mind.

511 - road conditions
Call this number for information about provincial roads only.

311 - Halifax information
Call this number for information about programs and services in Halifax.

211 - program and services information
Call this number for information on non-profit, community and government programs and services, including information about being ready for an emergency.
Visit ns.211.ca for a complete list of services.